Unwired Security

On September 11th, the nation discovered that our current cellular communications infrastructure is incapable of managing high volumes of both public safety and consumer phone traffic. In response, the National Communications System, a federal agency, has suggested a "priority access" system to wireless cellular networks in the event of an emergency -- a system that could block civilian calls during a crisis.

Reed Hundt, former Chairman of the FCC, proposes another option: a separate emergency wireless network that both connects all emergency personnel to each other around the clock with interoperable wireless devices; and that allows electronic media to maximize governmental communication with the general public in times of crisis. However the government improves emergency networks, the ongoing controversy about adequate spectrum allocation for public safety will take center stage. Our three speakers discussed the need for a separate emergency wireless network and where on the airwaves this should be located.

Participants

• Reed Hundt
  Senior Advisor, McKinsey and Co. and former Chair, Federal Communications Commission


• Thomas Wheeler
  President and CEO, Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association


• Robert M Gurss
  Counsel, APCO and Partner at Shook, Hardy & Bacon